NFL Rumor: Steelers have ‘legitimate interest’ in Justin Fields originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
The Steelers have “legitimate interest” in acquiring Bears quarterback Justin Fields, according to a new report from Steelers Now.
“Pittsburgh had talks or preliminary interest in a potential Fields trade dating back to the NFL Combine, but the price was too high,” Nick Farabaugh reported. “But after the trade for Pickett, there is still interest in Fields. While sources stressed to Steelers Now that the deal is not imminent, there is legitimate interest from Pittsburgh to explore a deal and potentially acquire Fields.”
Recently, ESPN reported the Eagles were in discussions with the Bears about Fields before trading for Kenny Pickett on Friday. Similarly, the Eagles balked at the high price set for Fields, shifting their interest to Pickett.
But with Pickett now in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh is seen as an ideal landing spot for Fields. They signed Russell Wilson this offseason, but his one-year deal opens the door for Fields to be the bridge quarterback, should Wilson not work out.
Fields has one more season left on his rookie contract. Any team that acquires him would have to decide whether or not to exercise his fifth-year option (by May). But, in the Steelers’ case, they could leave it undecided until they determine next season if they want him to come back. If not, they could trade him.
Initially, general manager Ryan Poles told the media during the NFL Combine he hoped to “do right by” Fields. The idea was to find a new home for Fields by the opening of NFL free agency on March 13.
That hasn’t happened. And with virtually zero starting quarterback spots open around the league, the Bears are left at a crossroads with Fields. That leaves them with one of two options, it appears.
The Bears and Steelers can either try and find common ground on a trade as soon as possible. Or, if the Bears are steadfast on finding proper trade value for Fields, they could wait until…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-rumor-steelers-legitimate-interest-204418218.html
Author : NBC Sports Chicago
Publish date : 2024-03-16 20:44:18
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